San Mateo Structure Fire

On April 29, 2009, San Mateo Fire and Police responded to a residential dwelling fire at 2810 Hosmer in San Mateo. While units were enroute, additional calls were received for heavy smoke from the residence.

San Mateo’s first fire Engine was on scene four minutes after dispatch. Upon arrival, firefighters reported a working fire and requested a second alarm. The adjacent home at 2816 Hosmer, located just east of the involved structure also caught fire and sustained minor damage. Three people were displaced as a result of the fire. No injuries were reported as a result of the fire. Red Cross provided assistance for overnight amenities for the displaced family.

Estimated loss from the fire is $350,000-500,000. The home had a working smoke detector which alerted the occupants of the fire.

The fire investigation revealed a significant delay in reporting the fire. In addition while the residents was evacuating their home they proceed to leave all doors open throughout the house allowing the fire to be spread by a strong northeasterly wind that evening. The area of origin was a twin bed in a back bedroom. Ignition source is still under investigation.